The ’80s are back, baby… in baby name form.
If you were a Cabbage-Patch-Doll-loving, Gem-watching, Cyndi-Lauper-dancing, flouro-sock wearing child of the ’80s, then these baby names are sure to get your ’80s blood a flowin’.
Hey mums. Remember growing up in the ’80s and ’90s? When life was uncomplicated and stress free? When kids didn’t need to be wrapped in bubble wrap just to go to the park and people didn’t feel the need to post photos of their food to social media?
Ahhh… those were the days.
Okay, so you may not be able to turn back time, but you can relive your childhood by choosing a name that ruled the stage and screen back in the day for the next generation.
These classic names from our childhood sparkle with that signature ’80s flair, but come with their own modern twist.
Rise of the ’80s baby names – cult classics
Corey – The name Corey just screams ’80s – Corey Hart. Corey Feldman. Corey Haim.
Xavier – If you had a Cabbage Patch Kid when you were younger, you may recall a signature on its butt. That name was Xavier Roberts, the inventor of Cabbage Patch Kids.
River – One of the hippest names of today is also a good one for any ’80s parents who had a thing for River Phoenix (how could you not?).
Kylie – She rose to fame in the ’80s, and we say it’s time to bring the name Kylie back into the spotlight.
’80s baby names drawn from music and books
Billie – Made popular by Michael Jackson, the song, Billie Jean peaked in 1984. It is also the name Bec Judd chose for her daughter.
Jovi – Short and sweet, the name Jovi is also a shout out to Bon Jovi.
Jessie – “Oh, I wish that I had Jessie’s Girl…” Rick Springfield’s ’80s anthem lives on with this cute name.
Orwell – George Orwell’s 1984 may provide you with the perfect inspiration for your bub’s name, especially if you are a fan of Orwell’s masterpieces.
Bastian – We can’t have an ’80s baby name list and not mention the main character in The Neverending Story!
Ramona – Beverly Cleary’s colourful collection of stories about Ramona adorned the shelves of pretty much every ’80s girl. Or, go with Mona, from Who’s the Boss? Or Tony even.
’80s baby names drawn from movies and TV
Milo – Remember Milo and Otis? Milo was the cat (I think) and Otis was the dog. In any case, these two animal adventurers were adorable to say the least. And both names are top contenders for trendsetting baby names of today.
Indie – Another popular option for today, Indie can also pay homage to ’80s action hero, Indiana Jones.
Alfie – Perfect for any Alf-loving parents out there.
Dylan – 90210 anyone?
Lucas – Star Wars is responsible for a number of unique baby names, including Anakin and Finn. But what about sticking to something a little more traditional (and named after Star Wars creator, George Lucas)?
Wesley – If you can remember your high school English curriculum, then you will probably recall the novel, The Princess Bride, which also happens to be one of the best movies of the ’80s. The story followed Wesley and his love interest, Buttercup.
Ripley – Ripley was the name of the main character in Alien.
Elliot – And Elliot was the young star of ET.
Sloane – While we’re browsing through the collection of video tapes from our childhood, let’s not forget Sloane, which became popular thanks to Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
Claire – Or Claire, the star of The Breakfast Club.
Donovan – The golden boy of Ramsey Street, Jason Donovan was once a household name. And while Jason’s fame may be over, the name Donovan still has some gusto left in it.
Not a fan of the ’80s? That’s okay. We have plenty of other pop culture inspired baby names that may be more your speed. And if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, then be sure to check out this list of GoT baby names that aren’t Khaleesi.
Feature image via Etsy
